Udupi: The Paryaya Kaniyoor Math and the Sri Krishna Math organised a four day-long folk cultural fest, National Integration – 2015, at Rajangana here, on Monday, November 16.

The programme began with the Rastrageeth by the children of Vidyodaya School. Madhwesh Acharya, Vidwan of the temple, welcomed the gathering. Governor of Karnataka, Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala inaugurated the fest by lighting the lamp.

Addressing the gathering, Vajubhai said that India is a mirror reflection of various cultural facets. Pointing out that there is a need to combat terror and show the world that there is zero tolerance towards terrorism in India, he said, “Terror which has its roots in immorality can be eliminated by infusing values among youth.” He added that youth should develop vigor to strengthen themselves. Referring that strength is life and weakness is death, the governor said that the youth are assets of the nation.

“The strength lies in inculcating the cultural values. Patriotic values are the foundation for building a strong nation. Love for the country runs through the veins of every individual in India. Sacrificing for the cause of the nation has been the strength of the nation since time immemorial,” he added.

Asserting that core Indian values lie in respecting women, the Governor added that the land which shows respect to women will surely progress and will have a society without grievances. He said that there is a need to empower women.